Mending · Beginner · 15 minutes

Fix a Split Seam

When a seam comes open, the fabric usually isn't torn. Only the stitches broke. Sew it back up from the inside with a backstitch and nobody will ever know.

Backstitch: on the front the stitches touch end to end; on the back they are twice as long and overlap.

You'll need

needle
thread matching the garment
pins
scissors

Step by step

Tick each step as you go if you like; ticks stay on this device.

Turn it inside outFind the open part of the seam and pull out any loose, broken threads.
Pin the seamLine the two edges up along the old stitching line, right sides together, and pin.
Start in the good stitchingFasten your thread about 1/2 inch before the gap, on top of the old stitches that are still holding.
Backstitch along the lineFollow the old seam line with small backstitches, 1/16 to 1/8 inch long.
Overlap at the far endSew about 1/2 inch past the gap into the old stitching, then fasten off with a couple of tiny stitches.
PressPress the seam the same way the rest of it lies, then turn the garment right side out.

Tips

Ask why it split. A seam that's too tight may need a slightly narrower seam allowance to give more room.
For extra strength, sew a second line of stitches 1/8 inch away, inside the seam allowance.
On stretchy knits, use polyester thread. A machine fix should use a stretch or small zigzag stitch.

Sources

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